Robertson in form after run of injuries

ON THE BALL: Gisborne Thistle leftback Jake Robertson prepares to take on a Massey University player. Robertson is back to his best after recovering from a series of injuries. Picture by Paul Rickard

GISBORNE Thistle leftback Jake Robertson is starting to fulfil the promise he showed when he first played for Team Gisborne in Pacific Premiership football two years ago.

Since then Robertson, son of Thistle coach Fred, has been hampered by a serious knee injury, which required an operation 18 months ago, and a series of niggly groin, hamstring and ankle injuries.

But the former Gisborne Boys’ High School player has fully recovered and after impressive performances in the early rounds of the Central Federation League was named man of the match after last week’s 4-3 Chatham Cup loss to Havelock North Wanderers.

“He’s had a tough time over the past two years but it looks like he is finally over it and he’s enjoying his football,” Fred Robertson said.

Meanwhile, Thistle could be without midfielder Josh Harris for tomorrow’s league game against Port Hill United at Childers Road Reserve at 2.30pm.

Unlikely Josh will play“Josh hasn’t been able to train after taking an ankle knock last week.

“At this stage, it’s very unlikely that Josh will play. If that’s the case, Cullen Spawforth, who missed last week’s game with a back injury, will come into the starting line-up.”

Robertson senior said left-winger Josh Adams was also in doubt.

“Josh started last week with a bit of an ankle knock then, probably trying too hard to protect it, he injured his hip.

“He’s working up the Coast so it’s a case of waiting to see how he pulls up. If he’s not able to play, Malcolm Marfell would slot in on the left wing.”

Robertson said the players were “over last week’s loss”.

“It was disappointing but now we can concentrate on winning the Federation League.

“Port Hill did us a favour when they took a point off Taranaki (competition leaders) but that shows we can’t afford to take them lightly this weekend.

“Their coach, Terry O’Neill, is one of the most astute coaches in the competition, having played and coached for as long as I can remember.

“Conceding four goals last week wasn’t the ideal preparation for us this weekend, but it was more a case of Havelock outplaying us in midfield, so I’m looking for an improved performance in that area tomorrow.”